Happy Mother's Day

Mothers are a constant source of love and support in our lives, and Major League Lacrosse would be remiss if we did not acknowledge the incredible importance these women have in our lives. Mother’s Day is this Sunday, May 11, so to celebrate mothers everywhere, we asked players around the league to share pictures, like Outlaws goalie Jesse Schwartzman (left) and stories with us that demonstrate just how much they loveand appreciate their mom.

Like all athletes, lacrosse players owe much of their success to the early support and encouragement given by their mothers even before they reached the professional level. Ohio Machine defenseman Max Schmidt told us that “after every game I always look to the stands for two people, my wife and my mom. With my wife it’s been like that for the past couple of years, but with my mom, it’s been like that for as long as I can remember. My mom has been there with me through every big win and every hard loss. She is my rock and my biggest fan. She sat through games in the rain, snow, sleet, heat, and freezing temperatures, but every time I see her after a game, I am met with a huge smile, a hug, and a “great game,” no matter the outcome. I am so grateful and blessed to have the mother that I have. She is my source of encouragement and support when I need it the most, no matter how old I get. I love you, Mom. Happy Mother’s Day!”

Florida Launch midfielder Chris Mattes is also appreciative of the support his mother has given him from the beginning. He told us that she is “always there for meand supporting of everything I want to do. Not to mention, she was at every single one of my youth, high school, and college games without missing one of them. Happy Mother’s Day to the best mom around!”

Paul Rabil’s mom also played a huge role in his lacrosse success. The Boston Cannons midfielder said, “Always wishing my beautiful mother a happy Mother’s Day! She’s been my courage, strength, and helping hand since forcing me to play lacrosse when I was 12 years old. Love you Mom!”

Moms teach us some of the most important life lessons, and they certainly never stop caring for us. Cameron and Roman Lao-Gosney (Florida Launch) told us that their mother instilled ambition and confidence in them at a young age, and they had a special message for their mom: “You’ve been all two sons could ever wish for. You taught us to keep dreaming and you never stopped believing in us. Happy Mother’s Day, Mom.”

Chris Bocklet also wanted to thank his mom for the incredible lessons she instilled in him. Here he is pictured with his mother while on a cruise. The Outlaws attackman said, “Happy Mother’s Day to the woman who taught me to be strong and live with positivity. You are the most thoughtful and caring person in the world!”

It’s not always easy for moms to watch their children put themselves on the line in fast-moving, aggressive sports like lacrosse. Brian Phipps, Ohio Machinegoalkeeper, told us that his mom knows this all too well. “I would like to thank my mom for all her love and support through the years. She always puts a smile on my face knowing how much she cares about me and my brother. One of the best ways that my mom expresses her care for us on the field is by how nervous she gets before games. As a goalie’s mom, it is never easy on her. She gets more nervous than I do before I play or coach. So, Mom, just know that I go out there and do my best, knowing how much you care about me. Thank you for everything you do. I love you!”

Outlaws midfielder Jeremy Sieverts cites his mother's encouragement as part of his success. He told us, “My mom is the greatest. She is a constant source of positive support in my life and encourages me to be the best person I can be. I love you, Mom! Happy Mother’s Day!”

Even though some of our mothers live far away, they always make their love known. MLL players travel all over the country, so they treasure each moment spent withtheir mothers. Charlotte Hounds defenseman Casey Cittadino shared with us a picture that was taken on one of these occasions. He said, “This was a good friend’s wedding in Hilton Head earlier this year. We typically can’t all get together since I am in Charlotte and my brother is in Orlando, while my parents are still in New York.” He gives us a great reminder to appreciate every moment we get to spend with the people who mean so much to us.

Mother’s Day is also a day to celebrate all the women in our lives who are mothers, not just our own moms. Many players had several different women to thank. Brodie Merrill of the Boston Cannons said, “I want to wish my wife (pictured left), mother, and mother-in-law a happy Mother’s Day. I’m fortunate to be surrounded by three incredible women who are amazing mothers and grandmothers. Thank you for all your love and support!”

Ohio Machine attacker Logan Schuss also has many women who play significant roles in his life. He shared a photo of his grandma, Bernice; aunt, Cherie; mom, Laura; and cousin Richelle. He said, “These are the most important ladies in my life who have watched every single game I’ve played in since I was 3! They are all great mothers who do so much for our family. Love y’all!”

Steve Brooks of the Chesapeake Bayhawks also wanted to thank all the women in his life. “Happy Mother’s Day to my mom who is missed and loved! Thank you for everything you have done for me! I would not be where I am today without you. Happy Mother’s Day to my Aunt Liz, who has always been there for me when I needed it most, and to my mother-in-law Gayle. And Happy Mother’s Day to my beautiful wife Sara who is a mother to be!”

Florida Launch defenseman Jason Noble said, “Mom, thank you for everything you have done for me and for supporting me at whatever I do. You are always there for me when I need you. Have an amazing day!”

Many players were thrilled to have the opportunity to thank their moms publicly for all the behind-the-scenes work they do. Denver Outlaw Brian Megill said, “I’d like to wish my mom, Joanne, the happiest of Mother’s Days. I love you, Mom!”

It’s clear that MLL players owe much of their success to their mothers, and are very appreciative of that love and support. Will Harrington summed it up well, saying, “Mother’s Day is a reminder for us to say something we should say everyday. So to the woman that always seems to know what I’m thinking, and always knows just what to say, I love you Mom! You’re the only one I’ve got, and I wouldn’t trade you for anything.”

We close out our annual tribute to moms with this great picture of Cannons faceoff man Chris Eck and his mother Debbie knowing full well that all lacrosse moms have sacrificed countless hours taking their children to and from practice so that one day they could fulfill their dreams of becoming professional athletes

Don’t forget to let your mom know just how much you love her, not only this Sunday, but every day. You can even buy her a gift in the MLL Shop to show your appreciation. Happy Mother’s Day!